What is a Paternity Case?

In some cases, the paternity of a child comes into question. Since parents are financially responsible for the welfare of their child, it is important to verify the paternity, if that is an issue. Paternity affects all aspects of a person’s life including financial obligations and visitation rights. Due to the seriousness and long-term consequences of these legal issues, it is imperative to have a qualified Colorado paternity lawyer working on your behalf.

Before a court can determine what parenting time, decision-making, and child support should be, there needs to be proof of paternity. Sometimes it is the Mother who requests a paternity test, but sometimes it is the alleged father or the court itself who requests one. Once paternity is established, either through admission or actual testing, the case can proceed like a typical custody case where the best interests of the child will be addressed and a plan to meet those best interests will be put in place.

Free Case Evaluation

If a couple was married during the child’s birth, there is the presumption that they are the biological or legal parents. If the parents were not married, there is a greater chance that the paternity of the child will be questioned. Some fathers request that their names be listed on the child’s birth certificate or will have a DNA test done to confirm they are the biological father. It is important to note, however, that even if the paternity of the child is not at issue, a paternity case still needs to be opened in order to establish the legal rights of the parties, like child support and child custody child custody.

Paternity is often established through a voluntary process between the parties. Once paternity is established, Colorado courts have the expectation that attorneys and their clients will work together to create a parenting plan that is in the best interests of the children involved in the case. When that fails, it is often necessary to attend court-ordered mediation, and if that fails the court may order a third party to intervene, such as a child family investigator, to make recommendations to the court. However the process unfolds, our attorneys are able to guide you through the process to create a custody situation that best fits your family and is in the best interests of your children.

There are many reasons to establish paternity, the most important being that it allows all parties, including the child to solidify the important rights of child support and child custody. In a healthy relationship, the support, both financial and emotional, of both parents is crucial to the child’s wellbeing.

The State of Colorado currently requires a mother or father to file a petition for paternity within four years of the child’s birth. This requirement has been rigorously applied by the courts, even in cases where the father was initially told by the mother that he’s not the child’s father.

Need Help with a Paternity Case?

Call Colorado Legal Group at 720.594.7360 or get started with a complimentary case evaluation.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long do paternity cases take?
Just like all cases, how long a paternity case depends on the facts of the specific case. Often these cases can take between three and nine months.

How much does a paternity lawsuit cost?
We can keep costs low in a paternity case if paternity is established quickly and we can reach a settlement regarding parenting time, decision-making, and child support. If a trial is involved, the case is simply more expensive. The attorney you meet with will be able to better determine what your case may cost.

How Can We Help?

Phone:
720.594.7360

Email:
info@coloradolegalgroup.com

Address:
1777 S Harrison St. #1050
Denver, CO 80210

Paternity Case Representation

What is a Paternity Case?

Free Case Evaluation

Presumption of Paternity

How to Establish Paternity in Colorado

Why Establish Paternity

Time Limits to Establishing Paternity

Need Help with a Paternity Case?

Frequently Asked Questions

How Can We Help?

Tell Us Your Story